Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show 2025

Melbourne, Victoria

Landscape Architect: Matt York

Photography: Phoebe Powell

Matt York’s In Ratio with Africa explores the synergies between garden design in Africa and Australia, drawing inspiration from his international work across Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana. These diverse landscapes have profoundly shaped his design process, enabling him to explore how outdoor spaces can be shaped by universal patterns and ratios of living, gathering, and occasion.

Resilient Planting & Effective Use of Space

This year’s garden delves into how resilient planting and the effective use of space can allow even compact urban gardens to support large-scale trees. It highlights how deep soils and podium designs help trees flourish in smaller spaces. The use and reuse of water is another key theme in the garden, demonstrating its benefits in cooling urban areas and enriching the sensory experience.

Cultural Connections Through Iconic Trees

York’s design incorporates trees such as the Baobab (Adansonia digitata)—which he encountered while working in Ghana—and the Queensland Bottle Tree (Brachychiton rupestris). These trees are central to the garden’s narrative, reflecting cultural connections to the land in both Africa and Australia.

Thoughtful Seating & Design Elements

As part of the garden’s seating area, York has selected the Amanu Lounge Chairs and Dunes Side Table for their refined materiality and understated presence. Designed by Yabu Pushelberg for Tribù, the teak frames and handwoven backrests of the chairs integrate seamlessly with the garden’s natural materials, allowing the rich tones of the wood to complement the landscape. The Dunes Side Table adds a subtle but functional touch, offering a space for rest and reflection within the garden’s thoughtful layout.

Adding Texture & Function with K Pebbles

Further enhancing the garden’s sculptural quality, K Pebbles from Atelier Vierkant are used to add an organic form to the design. Handcrafted from clay, the pebbles not only contribute an artistic element to the space but can also double as additional seating, adding both function and beauty to the tranquil atmosphere.
  • Amanu Lounge Chair 15% Off Outdoor Furniture Tribu

    Amanu Lounge Chair

    The refined Amanu lounge chair brings interior quality outside, combining comfort and sustainability. The chairs feature woven, hemp-based Canax® sling seats that seem to float from a slimline-teak frame, sourced from sustainably managed Indonesian plantations. The slightly tapered legs provide lightness and grace, while the smooth, half-rounded armrests and the elegant cushions make the chairs oh-so comfortable.

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  • Dunes Side & Coffee Tables - Outdoor Furniture

    Dunes Side & Coffee Tables

    A simple, gently domed and sculptural base with smooth circular top are all that comprise the timeless Dunes Coffee & Side table.Solid teak adds a warm, natural quality to this practical and beautiful little side table, which fits easily into any outdoor setting.

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  • K Pebbles

    Hand-crafted sculptures that will last a lifetime. These pebbles are sculptural pieces for the home and garden that are constructed using unique clay from different regions of Germany. They are made using moulds and are slowly hand carved and sculpted by a team of around 20 master craftspeople which effectively gives each pebble their one of a kind aesthetic. 

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Reflecting on the Cultural & Environmental Impact of Outdoor Spaces

In Ratio with Africa invites visitors to reflect on how outdoor spaces, regardless of scale, can bring cultural and environmental stories to life. By weaving together elements from both African and Australian landscapes, the garden creates a space that celebrates connection, resilience, and the power of thoughtful design. York’s installation earned second place at the 2025 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, showcasing his continued commitment to innovative and meaningful landscape design.

Design by Matt York From Ratio Consultants

Ratio is a trusted and independent consultancy working across planning, urban design, transport, waste, landscape architecture and circular economy. For over 30 years, Ratio has delivered integrated solutions that balance population growth, built form, environmental care and community wellbeing—adding value for clients, councils and communities across Australia.

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